On the matter of Income tax returns, several Offices of Income Tax was asking for annexure and receiving the same from tax payers. CBDT has come with a clear clarification and instruction to all collection counters stating the tax returns are purely annexure less. The summary is as under.

With a view to enabling tax-payers to file returns in the electronic mode, Income tax returns (except ITR-7) have been made annexure-less. The instructions for filling up the return forms clearly stipulate that “No document (including TDS/TCS certificate, report of audit) should be attached to this form. Official receiving the return has been instructed to detach all documents enclosed with this form and return the same to the assessee.”.

It has come to the notice of the Board that in spite of the directions contained in the Instructions for filling the return forms, the practice of accepting returns, along with annexures is still continuing. This practice goes against the expressed policy of the Government and is not in consonance with the legal provisions. Therefore, it is emphasized that Chief Commissioners of Income Tax must ensure strict compliance with the provisions of law. It may be reiterated that all annexures accompanying the income tax return forms should be detached and returned to the tax-payers by the receiving official.

The copy of circular on Income tax returns clarification [Circular No.6 /2008] is avialable here.

Information Courtesy: Central Board of Direct Taxes